Petroleum prices are likely to increase by up to Rs 6.8 per litre from March 1 2026, subject to government approval, as global oil markets continue to show upward momentum.

According to projections shared by Arif Habib Limited, the price of Motor Spirit (MS) petrol is expected to go up by Rs 5.13 per litre, taking the new rate to around Rs 263.30 per litre.

High-Speed Diesel (HSD), which is widely used in transport and agriculture sectors, may witness a sharper increase of Rs 6.8 per litre. If approved, the new HSD price would reach approximately Rs 282.50 per litre.

Market analysts attribute the expected hike mainly to a rise in international crude oil prices. Arab Light crude reportedly climbed by 2.7 percent during the review period. In addition, a slight increase in product spreads in the global market further pushed up import costs.

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In the previous fortnightly review, the federal government had already raised the HSD price to Rs 275.7 per litre, while petrol was fixed at Rs 258.17 per litre, putting additional pressure on consumers.

If the proposed increase is implemented, it could add to inflationary concerns and raise transportation and commodity costs across the country. The final decision will be announced after formal approval by the government.